4th XI vs Hounslow & Whitton

Hounslow & Whitton Overpower Sonning 4th XI in High-Scoring Encounter

Sonning CC 4th XI suffered a comprehensive defeat at King George's Field on Saturday, falling short by 122 runs against Hounslow & Whitton CC 4th XI in their Division 10A league fixture. After winning the toss and electing to field, Sonning struggled to contain the home side who posted a formidable 258 all out.

The Hounslow & Whitton innings was built around several solid contributions, with Harpreet Sana leading the way with an aggressive 43 from 47 deliveries, including eight boundaries and a six. Pavandeep Madan anchored the top order with a patient 39 from 80 balls, while Gurmeet Bhatia added valuable impetus with a brisk 31 from just 31 deliveries.

Sonning's bowling attack found themselves under pressure throughout, conceding 83 extras including 63 wides. Eshan Jain emerged as the pick of the bowlers with figures of 3-41 from his eight overs, while Stephen Pollard (2-28), Aakash Rajoriya (2-44), and Syed Adnan (2-47) provided support. Sunit Bansode delivered an economical spell of 8-3-24-0, but the visitors were unable to stem the flow of runs.

Chasing 259 for victory, Sonning's reply faltered early as they lost both openers with just 18 runs on the board. Captain Charles Astwood (6) and Matthew Clift (2) fell to Sani Chopra and Sam Chopra respectively, both caught by wicketkeeper Bailey Bright. The middle order continued to struggle against disciplined bowling, with Arun Raghavendra battling for 9 runs from 43 deliveries before becoming Mahesh Gedara's only victim.

At 31-4, Sonning were in deep trouble, but Eshan Jain provided some resistance with 26 from 39 balls, including five boundaries. The innings' standout performer was Aakash Rajoriya, who remained unbeaten on 36 from 27 deliveries with seven fours, showing positive intent even as wickets fell around him.

Asanga Mudalidewage proved devastating with the ball for Hounslow & Whitton, claiming 4-6 from just 4.1 overs with two maidens. The Chopra duo of Sani (2-23) and Sam (2-12) provided excellent support as Sonning were dismissed for 136 in 27.1 overs.

The result maintains Hounslow & Whitton's strong start to the season, while Sonning's 4th XI will be looking to improve their bowling discipline and batting resilience in their upcoming fixtures. The 83 extras conceded ultimately proved decisive in a match where Sonning showed occasional promise but lacked the consistency required to challenge their hosts.